Hebridean isle sets up not-for-profit vets practice

Tiree has launched what is thought to be the UK's first non-profit, community-owned vets.

The local community bought the Hebridean island's only practice after the previous owners retired last summer and no successor could be found.

Animal Care Tiree, which officially opened on Monday, has visiting veterinary surgeons and also offers around-the-clock online support.

More than 190 households have already signed up to the service, which covers both pets and livestock.

Tiree is home to about 650 people and is reached from the mainland by a four-hour ferry journey or by plane from Oban and Glasgow.

Crofting forms a key part of the island's economy.

Before the community stepped in it was feared the vets practice could be lost entirely, leaving locals reliant on ferries to access services on the mainland.

Islanders estimated the economic impact could be about £390,000 a year due to livestock lost to preventable health conditions, also travel costs and a reduced confidence in crofting.

Animal Care Tiree, which is backed by Tiree Community Development and Tiree Rural Development, raised £70,000 to establish the new service.

Animal Care Tiree director and crofter Rhoda Meek said it had been a difficult eight months since the previous vet retired.

She said the approaching calving and lambing seasons had added to concerns.

"Losing veterinary cover felt like another signal that island communities are expected to manage decline," said Meek.

"We decided to refuse that premise."

The community is now seeking funding to support ongoing practice operations.

Meek said: "We're also launching a member scheme for our residents as well so that they can become members of the practice and pay a subscription.

"They get some benefits and we get some income to keep us going as well.

"We're confident that the community is behind the project."